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The Song Hosanna: Story and History

Jun 13, 2013

"There are many other songs by this title, but this one (Hillsong United) has gained popularity quickly since coming out six years ago."

One song that speaks to me is “Hosanna” by Hillsong United. It really helps me imagine God’s glory and power. Not only is God physically powerful to move the wind and waves, He’s more powerful in moving people emotionally and spiritually. This song brings this to life. Brooke Fraser of Hillsong United wrote and sung the original version and it was recorded on the “All of the Above” album. In this interview http://youtu.be/18xfVOOgx9w, Brooke shares how the song came to her and gives the credit to the Holy Spirit. She was having trouble bringing the chorus together, so she started playing on a piano and the words and melody came to her very easily.

“All of the Above” was Hillsong United’s first album recorded in studio and it reached #1 on the Billboard’s Top Christian and Gospel Albums. It also was #1 in sales on iTunes, and #1 on the Nielsen Christian SoundScan chart.

Since first coming out on the “All of the Above” album in 2007, Hillsong United has also featured the song on “The I Heart Revolution: With Hearts as One” and “Live in Miami”.

Most versions that have been remade by other artists follow closely to the original version musically. There are many other songs by this title, but this one has gained popularity quickly since coming out six years ago.

"The Truth" Revelation 10:1 “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven, wrapped in a cloud, with a rainbow over his head, and his face was like the sun, and his legs like pillars of fire.”

Hosanna by Hillsong United

Hillsong United has captured a large following. The first part of the song is designed to highlight the lead singer’s voice and the instruments fit the overall melody. During the chorus there is a guitar solo and the focus is more on the instruments.

Hosanna Loud Hosanna by the Veggie Tales

This version on “A Very Veggie Easter” from 2006 is, of course, directed toward children. The lyrics and melody make it quite unique, but you will notice the resemblance to other versions of Hosanna in the chorus. The song is focused on Jesus and praising Him.

Hosanna by Christy Nockels

Christy does a great job making this song her own on her “Passion: God of This City” album from early 2008. The sound is very clear and she sings solo through most of the song, but many voices join in for the chorus. With this and the changing tempo, the message of the chorus is greatly emphasized.

Hosanna by Starfield

Bringing a male flavor to this favorite, Starfield first came out with their version of the song on the “I Will Go” album in early 2008. They offer an upbeat version that highlights different instruments and multiple male voices singing the lyrics. The voices blend together well and get higher for the chorus. About halfway through the song, the lead male (Tim Neufeld) sings and the rest of the band echo his words.

Hosanna by Selah

Coming out with this song in 2009 on their “You Deliver Me” album, Selah makes the song unique with the instrument selection. The male lead starts out the song and the whole group joins to sing the chorus. Overall, the song is mellower than some of the other versions, but a great version as well!

Hosanna by Hillsong Chapel

The Hillsong Church in Australia is home to Hillsong United, but the band travels around the world frequently. The band was formed at the church and there are other groups within the church, called Hillsong Chapel and Hillsong Live, that frequently perform the song. It’s slightly different each time it’s sung since the performers within each group change frequently.

"The Truth" Matthew 21:9 “The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!”

I believe this song is still in it’s infancy and although it has already made a huge impact, there are greatest hit productions and other artists and choirs that need to connect to this song and bring us a new heartfelt version. Not to rush transforming an already great song, but I know there are more great things that can be done with this song. Brooke Fraser showed her true talent and where her heart is and has many great years ahead of her. I’m very excited to see her continue writing and singing as an artist.